2024 Formula 1 car parametric CFD

Project · Project 46

A full parametric aerodynamic design methodology for a 2024-spec Formula 1 car, integrating CAD-based geometry generation in CATIA V5 with high-fidelity CFD validation to evaluate aerodynamic performance under FIA regulatory constraints.

Parametric geometry

The vehicle was designed from first principles using the FIA control volumes, enabling rapid iteration of the key aerodynamic components: front wing with multi-element parametric profiles, floor with strakes and diffuser interaction, rear wing with multi-section geometry and beam wing coupling, and full bodywork integration covering sidepods, engine cover and inlet systems.

CFD setup

Simulations were performed using a GPU-based solver (XFlow), modelling external aerodynamics in a wind tunnel domain of 98×57×57 m at 50 m/s, with near-wall refinement down to 4 mm.

Results

Flow structures were analysed through velocity contours, pressure distributions and vorticity fields, identifying the key aerodynamic phenomena: wake upwash, underfloor acceleration, and pressure recovery in the diffuser.